Triostudio's Innovative Japanese Dining Space Design

Breaking Traditional Boundaries with Kuromon Ichiban

The inspiration behind the design of Kuromon Ichiban comes from the desire to showcase the brand richness of the restaurant. Triostudio envisioned it as more than just an izakaya, a type of informal Japanese bar, but also a place where patrons can enjoy robatayaki, a form of Japanese cooking, and immerse themselves in the night food culture of Japan.

What sets Kuromon Ichiban apart from other restaurants is its unique design. The restaurant, which specializes in yakitori cuisine, breaks away from the traditional Japanese style. Instead, it utilizes ambience and courtyard-style installations to present the essence of Japanese culinary culture. The design emphasizes the transition between spaces with impressive details, creating a refined dining atmosphere that is both warm and inviting.

The technical realization of this design is a testament to Triostudio's innovative approach. The interior decoration features a wooden structure, tables, and chairs in bright tones, giving the space a natural feel. The walls, ceiling, and floors are subtly treated, and the elevated kitchen allows the cooking process to be visible from any corner of the restaurant. This 198 square meter space is a perfect blend of form and function.

The restaurant's design also takes into account the interaction between the space and its patrons. It has two entrances, each designed in a different style. The eastern entrance connects to the mall, while the western one faces the street, featuring a grille-like façade with thatched landscape and soft light. This design allows diners to see clearly from the outside, stimulating their appetite even before they step in.

The design process was not without its challenges. Triostudio had to consider the stability and safety of the wooden structure and negotiate with suppliers and the construction contractor multiple times due to the use of many construction techniques and detail treatments for the first time. Despite these challenges, the design was completed within a span of five months, from August 2021 to January 2022, and the restaurant officially opened in March 2022.

Triostudio's innovative design for Kuromon Ichiban has been recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2022. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and Triostudio's design for Kuromon Ichiban certainly fits the bill. It is a testament to the studio's commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional design and creating unique dining experiences.